This easy mango sticky rice recipe is a sweet, creamy, and tropical Thai dessert that’s as comforting as it is refreshing. I still remember the first time I tasted Thai mango sticky rice at a local food stall in Chiang Mai.
The fragrance of sweet coconut mingled with freshly sliced mango it was magical. Years later, I’ve made this homemade mango sticky rice countless times in my kitchen, refining the rice’s texture and lightness of the coconut sauce, all while keeping the process easy and fuss-free.
Made with chewy sticky rice and mango, then topped with a rich coconut sauce, it’s a simple dish that delivers big flavor with just a few ingredients.
Using glutinous rice, ripe mangoes, and coconut milk, this mango sticky rice comes together effortlessly no complicated steps, just classic ingredients and authentic taste.
It’s one of those desserts that’s elegant enough for guests, yet easy enough for a weeknight treat.
Whether you call it sticky mango rice recipe or mango sticky rice recipe, the result is the same, a heavenly balance of warm rice, cool fruit, and sweet-salty coconut sauce that hits all the right notes.
Perfect for summer cravings, after-dinner indulgence, or impressing your friends with something both traditional and irresistible.
Mango Sticky Rice with Coconut Sauce Ingredients
- Glutinous Rice (Sticky Rice): This is the essential base of the dessert. It has a chewy, sticky texture when cooked, perfect for soaking up sweet coconut sauce. Do not substitute with regular rice.
- Fresh Ripe Mangoes: The star fruit of the dish. Choose yellow Ataulfo or Nam Dok Mai mangoes they’re sweet, creamy, and pair beautifully with the coconut rice.
- Coconut Milk: This rich, creamy liquid adds the signature tropical flavor and binds the sweet and savory elements of the dessert. Use full-fat coconut milk for the best texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the coconut sauce and sticky rice. Adjust to taste depending on the ripeness of your mangoes.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor especially in the coconut sauce.
- Pandan Leaves (optional): Adds an aromatic, vanilla-like scent. It’s a traditional Thai touch that elevates the authenticity of the dish.
- Cornstarch or Rice Flour (optional): Used to thicken the coconut sauce if you like a slightly creamier texture on top of the sticky rice.
- Sesame Seeds or Mung Beans (optional garnish): Adds a light crunch and nutty contrast to the soft rice and mango. Toast lightly for extra flavor.
- Banana Leaves (optional for serving): Traditional and aesthetic gives the dish an authentic tropical presentation and slight aroma if steamed with the rice.
Equipment for Preparing Mango Sticky Rice with Coconut Sauce
- Large Bowl: For soaking and rinsing rice.
- Fine-Mesh Sieve/Strainer: For draining and rinsing rice.
- Steamer Basket: Bamboo or metal, preferably with a lid.
- Large Pot: To hold water for steaming.
- Cheesecloth or Thin Kitchen Towel: For lining the steamer basket.
- Medium Saucepan: For preparing the sweet coconut milk for the rice.
- Small Saucepan: For preparing the serving coconut sauce.
- Whisk: For making the sauces.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For mixing rice and coconut milk.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping mangoes.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate proportions.
Quick Tips for Preparing Easy Mango Sticky Rice Recipe with Coconut Sauce
- Use authentic glutinous rice it’s essential for the stickiness.
- Soak for at least 30 min to ensure soft, even cooking.
- Lightly sweeten coconut sauce you want balance with fresh mango.
- If thickening sauce cornstarch slurry makes it glossy.
The Health Benefits of Mango Sticky Rice with Coconut Sauce
- Rich in antioxidants: Mangoes are packed with vitamin C, beta-carotene, and polyphenols that help protect cells from oxidative stress and support immune health.
- Good source of healthy fats: Coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized quickly by the body and may support brain function and energy levels.
- Gluten-free: Naturally made without wheat or gluten-containing ingredients, making it a great dessert option for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
- Provides quick energy: Sticky rice is high in carbohydrates, making this dessert a good post-meal energy boost or a satisfying afternoon treat.
- Contains essential minerals: Salt and coconut milk provide small amounts of sodium, potassium, and magnesium that help maintain electrolyte balance.
- Boosts skin health: The vitamin A and E in mangoes promote glowing skin, help reduce inflammation, and support cell regeneration.
- Supports digestion: Mangoes contain enzymes like amylase, which help break down carbs and improve digestion.
CONCLUSION
This mango sticky rice recipe brings tropical magic right into your kitchen with just a few simple, wholesome ingredients.
It’s gloriously easy yet feels special like pulling sunshine onto your dessert plate.
Whether it’s for a summer treat or a bright twist to your weeknight menu, it never fails to impress.
The creamy coconut, tender sticky rice, and silky mango slices blend into a moment of pure deliciousness.
Trust me once you give this a try, it’ll become a regular on your dessert rotation and a crowd-pleaser wherever you bring it.
✅ Quick Tips: Read through the full recipe before diving in, it’s the best way to get a feel for the flow, prep time, and tools you’ll need. Think of it like scanning a map before a road trip: you’ll cook more confidently and avoid any surprises halfway through.
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Easy Mango Sticky Rice Recipe with Coconut Sauce
Description
this easy mango sticky rice recipe brings together perfectly tender glutinous rice soaked in creamy coconut sauce, paired with ripe, juicy mango slices. A tropical, vegan-friendly Thai dessert that’s beautifully aesthetic, simple to make, and irresistibly indulgent.
Ingredients
Instructions
This mango sticky rice recipe is all about technique and timing. Follow these steps for a dessert that will transport you straight to Thailand!
Soak & Steam
- Rinse sticky rice until water runs clear. Soak for up to 30 min (or just rinse if time‑pressed).
- Steam over simmering water for 20 min or until tender.
Infuse Coconut Flavor
- Combine ½ cup coconut milk with cooked rice in a bowl.
- Stir gently, cover, and let absorb for 10 min.
Make Sweet Coconut Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk coconut milk, sugar, and salt until warm and dissolved.
- Add cornstarch slurry if desired.
- Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
Assemble & Serve
- Spoon sticky rice onto plates, pour 2–3 Tbsp warm coconut sauce over rice, fan mango slices alongside, and sprinkle garnish.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size ~¾ cup sticky rice + ½ mango
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 380kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Saturated Fat 16g80%
- Sodium 230mg10%
- Potassium 250mg8%
- Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 14g
- Protein 4g8%
- Vitamin A 720 IU
- Vitamin C 45 mg
- Calcium 20 mg
- Iron 1 mg
- Vitamin K 4 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Sear for Serious Flavor: Never skip searing your chicken pieces! Pat them bone dry, season well with salt and pepper, and sear them in a hot skillet with olive oil until they develop a deep, golden-brown crust on both sides. This creates a flavorful foundation that carries into the sauce.
- Garlic's Gentle Touch: Add your minced garlic after the chicken has seared and been removed. Sauté it gently in the remaining pan drippings (or a little fresh butter) over medium-low heat for just 1-2 minutes until it's fragrant and lightly golden. Burnt garlic turns bitter, so watch it closely!
- Deglaze the Pan: This is a golden rule! After sautéing the garlic, pour in a splash of white wine, chicken broth, or even dry vermouth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds incredible depth to your sauce.
- Cream Choice Matters: For the richest, most luxurious sauce, use full-fat heavy cream. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works, but it won't be as decadent.
- Brighten with Acidity: Cream sauces can sometimes feel a bit heavy. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end is transformative. It cuts through the richness, brightens the flavors, and truly makes the dish sing.
- Fresh Herbs are Essential: Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh, finely chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or even a touch of thyme. They add vibrant color and a burst of fresh flavor that elevates the whole dish.
- Low and Slow Simmer: Once the cream is added, keep the heat on low and let the sauce gently simmer and thicken. A rapid boil can cause the cream to separate or curdle.
